Co-Creating Climate-Resilient Campuses: A Participatory Framework for Nature-Based Micro Green Infrastructures in Severe Cold Climates

Co-Creating Climate-Resilient Campuses: A Participatory Framework for Nature-Based Micro Green Infrastructures in Severe Cold Climates | Research Square window.SnipcartSettings = { analytics: { enabled: false } }; (function() { var accessVector = localStorage.getItem('access_vector') || ''; window.dataLayer = window.dataLayer || []; if (accessVector) { window.dataLayer.push({ user: { profile: { profileInfo: { snid: accessVector } } } }); } })(); (function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start':new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0],j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src='https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl;f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f);})(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-K279D39R'); Browse Preprints In Review Journals COVID-19 Preprints AJE Video Bytes Research Tools Research Promotion AJE Professional Editing AJE Rubriq About Preprint Platform In Review Editorial Policies Our Team Advisory Board Help Center Sign In Submit a Preprint Cite Share Download PDF Article Co-Creating Climate-Resilient Campuses: A Participatory Framework for Nature-Based Micro Green Infrastructures in Severe Cold Climates Hüccet Vural, Mustafa Özgeriş, Ayşe Karahan, Selim Cinisli, Gizem Azra Alankuş, and 1 more This is a preprint; it has not been peer reviewed by a journal. https://doi.org/ 10.21203/rs.3.rs-9396924/v1 This work is licensed under a CC BY 4.0 License Status: Under Review Version 1 posted 8 You are reading this latest preprint version Abstract The integration of micro green infrastructures, specifically pocket parks, is increasingly recognized as a vital nature-based solution (NBS) to enhance urban climate resilience. However, traditional landscape planning in severe cold-climate regions often defaults to temperate-centric paradigms, resulting in the spatial abandonment of outdoor areas during prolonged winters. This study proposes that climate-resilient urban infrastructure is fundamentally a socio-spatial phenomenon, requiring subjective human perception data to complement objective microclimatic metrics. Focusing on Erzurum, Turkey—a high-altitude winter city—we developed a mixed-methods participatory framework to establish design principles for climate-adaptive pocket parks. Quantitative surveys (n = 250) and qualitative focus groups revealed that the academic community demands restorative "third places" with minimalist designs (64.8%). Crucially, an overwhelming anxiety regarding maintenance (80.4%) exposed a post-occupancy management burden, while concurrent concerns over shading highlighted the absolute necessity of seasonal thermal flexibility. Synthesizing these survey-based participatory demands, we introduce a reproducible "Thematic and Modern Landscape Assessment Rubric" that directly links user constraints to xeriscaping and low-maintenance botanical typologies. Ultimately, this study demonstrates that integrating rigorous socio-ecological methodologies into early design phases is essential for scaling campus-level microclimate interventions into comprehensive urban resilience strategies. Biological sciences/Ecology Earth and environmental sciences/Ecology Earth and environmental sciences/Environmental sciences Earth and environmental sciences/Environmental social sciences Social science/Environmental studies Scientific community and society/Geography Social science/Geography Micro green infrastructure pocket parks winter cities participatory design nature-based solutions socio-spatial perception landscape assessment rubric Figures Figure 1 Figure 2 1. Introduction The intensifying impacts of global climate change and rapid urbanization have compelled cities to fundamentally rethink their spatial infrastructures ( 1 ). In response, micro green infrastructures, particularly pocket parks, have gained critical prominence as nature-based solutions ( 2 ). Unlike large-scale urban parks that require extensive land and financial resources, pocket parks are highly adaptable, decentralized "stepping stones" of biodiversity that provide immediate psychological restoration and microclimatic regulation to local communities ( 3 – 5 ). Recent systemic reviews demonstrate that these small-scale interventions are not merely aesthetic additions but are essential values for sustainable urban frameworks ( 1 ). University campuses, often functioning as autonomous micro-cities, present a unique context for the deployment of these micro green infrastructures ( 6 ). Recent literature emphasizes that the spatial quality and greenness of campus grounds profoundly dictate the academic community's quality of life, institutional satisfaction, and overall wellbeing ( 7 , 8 ). However, the global discourse on sustainable campus design has been overwhelmingly skewed toward temperate or tropical climates ( 9 ). In high-altitude, severe cold-climate regions (winter cities), traditional landscape planning frequently defaults to temperate-centric paradigms ( 10 , 11 ). Consequently, outdoor campus spaces designed with a summer-oriented landscape paradigm fail to block harsh winter winds or manage heavy snow loads, leading to the spatial abandonment of these environments for more than half of the academic year ( 12 ). To address the severe climatic stressors in winter cities, conventional engineering approaches have historically relied on pure meteorological measurements and digital microclimate simulations ( 13 – 15 ). While these objective metrics are valuable, recent paradigm shifts in urban design recognize that climate-resilient infrastructure is fundamentally a socio-spatial phenomenon ( 16 ). Objective thermal indices often fail to capture the "perceived outdoor thermal comfort" of the actual users ( 17 ). Survey-based participatory methodologies and urban data demonstrate that human spatial perception, demographic variables, and psychological adaptation play a far more decisive role in the actual usage of outdoor spaces than mere physical temperature ( 18 ). Therefore, imposing strict architectural typologies without integrating the subjective thermal sensations and functional demands of the end-users frequently results in operational failure ( 19 ). Contemporary landscape architecture increasingly champions participatory planning as a cornerstone of sustainable design ( 20 , 21 ). When university students and staff are actively involved in the design process, campus green spaces transcend their role as mere transit corridors and transform into vital "third places" that facilitate informal social learning and community attachment ( 22 – 24 ). Integrating user feedback—especially concerning botanical preferences, functional amenities, and shading requirements—into the early phases of design is the only viable method to ensure the long-term social sustainability of nature-based interventions ( 25 , 26 ). Consequently, the use of visual surveys and direct participant feedback is now considered fundamental in developing climate-responsive campus landscapes ( 27 – 29 ). Despite the growing consensus on participatory design, there is a distinct lack of actionable, reproducible frameworks tailored for severe cold-climate university campuses ( 30 ). Focusing on Erzurum, Turkey—one of the highest-altitude urban settlements globally, characterized by prolonged and harsh winters—this study aims to bridge the gap between objective microclimatic challenges and subjective user perceptions ( 31 , 32 ). By employing a mixed-methods participatory approach, integrating quantitative surveys (n = 250) and qualitative focus groups, this research answers the critical question: How can survey-based participatory data dictate the structural and botanical typologies required to create climate-adaptive pocket parks in winter cities? ( 33 ). Ultimately, this study synthesizes these crowdsourced spatial demands to develop a novel, reproducible "Thematic and Modern Landscape Assessment Rubric". This framework is designed not only to guide university administrations and landscape architects in transforming their season-blind campus grounds into vibrant, year-round learning landscapes but also to serve as a scalable socio-ecological blueprint for broader urban resilience strategies in severe cold climates. 2. Methods 2.1. Study Area Context The research was conducted at the main campus of Atatürk University, located in Erzurum, Turkey (Figs. 1 and 2 ). Situated at an altitude of approximately 1,900 meters, Erzurum is characterized by a severe continental climate with prolonged, harsh winters and significant snow accumulation ( 31 ). Functioning as an autonomous micro-city since its establishment in 1957, the campus was originally planned with modernist architectural principles and temperate-centric landscape paradigms ( 11 , 30 ). Over time, this "season-blind" planning has resulted in wind-swept, underutilized outdoor spaces that lack adequate microclimatic protection, making the campus grounds largely inhospitable for social learning and restorative activities during the winter months. 2.2. Study Design and Ethical Considerations To address these socio-spatial deficiencies, this study adopted a mixed-methods participatory research design, synthesizing quantitative crowdsourced surveys with qualitative spatial assessments. This approach is widely recognized as a robust framework for capturing the "perceived outdoor thermal comfort" and functional demands of park users in micro green infrastructures ( 3 , 5 , 23 ). All research protocols, including the questionnaire design and focus group methodologies, were rigorously reviewed and approved by the Science and Engineering Ethics Committee of Atatürk University (Approval Date: 30.01.2026, Decision No: 5). Informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to data collection, and the study was conducted in strict accordance with the ethical guidelines for human subjects research. 2.3. Data Collection: Survey and Participatory Demands Data were collected through a structured visual-verbal preference survey distributed to a stratified sample of the academic community, encompassing students, academic staff, and administrative personnel (n = 250). The questionnaire was deliberately designed to identify the primary post-occupancy management burdens, seasonal thermal flexibility needs, and specific design expectations for potential pocket parks. For instance, the survey specifically queried participants on concerns such as "lack of cleaning and maintenance" and "inadequate shading", which are critical parameters for ensuring the long-term sustainability and social acceptance of nature-based interventions ( 16 , 23 ). 2.4. Synthesis of Participatory Data and the 4-Axis Rubric The quantitative analysis of the survey (n = 250) revealed distinct participatory demands that profoundly shaped our design methodology. A significant majority of the academic community indicated a strong preference for "Modern and Minimalist" (64.8%) and "Natural and Organic" (46.4%) design approaches. Crucially, the overwhelming anxiety regarding the "lack of cleaning and maintenance" (80.4%) underscored the necessity of abandoning high-maintenance exotic plants in favor of resilient, low-maintenance botanical typologies. To translate these crowdsourced subjective preferences into a highly objective and reproducible design framework, we developed the "Thematic and Modern Landscape Assessment Rubric" (Table 1 ). This assessment tool was constructed by synthesizing the survey outputs with contemporary landscape evaluation methodologies, transforming raw user perception into actionable urban design metrics ( 34 , 35 ). The developed rubric systematically evaluates potential micro green infrastructures across four primary axes: Structural, Botanical, Climatic, and Philosophical. The Structural axis addresses the physical layout, emphasizing minimalist seating and accessible pathways to meet the 64.8% demand for modernism. Simultaneously, the Climatic axis focuses on seasonal thermal flexibility, directly addressing the users' paradoxical demands for both shaded (55.2%) and sun-exposed (40.4%) areas. Furthermore, the Botanical and Philosophical axes are tightly integrated to propose specific thematic garden typologies—such as Alpine Rock Gardens, Butterfly Gardens, and Healing/Aromatic Gardens ( 36 ). Utilizing such ecologically adapted plant species directly mitigates the post-occupancy management burden, ensuring that the pocket parks remain functionally and aesthetically viable even during Erzurum's severe winter conditions ( 37 , 38 ). Table 1 The Thematic and Modern Landscape Assessment Rubric, illustrating the four primary axes and subparameters used to evaluate the climatic, botanical, and structural suitability of pocket parks. Evaluation Axes Sub-Parameters Description of the Criteria AXIS 1: Design Philosophy & Thematic Identity Thematic Clarity The degree to which the design reflects the core philosophy of the referenced garden style (e.g., asymmetry in Zen, fourfold symmetry in Char-Bagh). Modern Trends Integration Compatibility with modern design parameters such as tactical urbanism, pop-up spaces, or multisensory experiential learning approaches. User Interaction The capacity of the design to establish a human-space relationship (e.g., observation in butterfly gardens, healing in therapeutic gardens). AXIS 2: Climatic & Geographic Suitability Climatic Adaptation The appropriateness of the thematic selection for local climate zones, such as utilizing xeriscaping for arid or severe cold regions. Microclimate & Heat Management Provision of thermal comfort using semiclosed seating corners, shading elements, pergolas, or water features. Sustainable Infrastructure The presence of rain gardens, green roofs, biofiltration areas, or low-water consumption (drip) irrigation systems. AXIS 3: Spatial & Structural Components Use of Water Features The aesthetic and functional integration of water, whether stagnant (reflection), flowing (channels), or symbolic (sand waves). Boundary & Transition Elements The proper use of space-defining elements like high walls, natural stone borders, curved transitions, or stepping stones. Floor Materials The ecological and thematic balancing of hardscapes such as gravel, wooden decks, geometric mosaics, or compacted earth paths. AXIS 4: Thematic Botanical Design Proper Use of Species The utilization of specific trees, shrubs, or ground covers strictly required by the theme (e.g., lavender for xeriscape, sycamore for Islamic gardens). Ecological & Educational Function The contribution of plants to biodiversity (pollinator-friendly species), medicinal/aromatic benefits, or the use of native plants. Seasonal Flexibility & Maintenance The success of low-maintenance plant configurations that evoke different visual and sensory interests throughout the year. As a final methodological step to validate the practical applicability of this rubric, well-known global landscape typologies (e.g., Zen, Scandinavian, Char-Bagh) were selected as test models. Conceptual spatial schemes were developed to demonstrate how these established design philosophies can be structurally and botanically adapted to severe cold climates using the proposed rubric. 2.5. Data Analysis Procedure Data analysis was conducted following a rigorous bipartite procedure. The quantitative survey data were imported into IBM SPSS Statistics (Version 26.0) for statistical evaluation. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, were generated to summarize demographic profiles and general pocket park usage preferences. The Pearson chi-square (χ2) test was used to explore the complex relationships between independent demographic variables and categorical dependent variables. Statistical significance was established at the p < 0.05 level, reflecting the standard threshold for sociospatial studies ( 16 ). Additionally, a log-linear model analysis was employed to examine design approach suggestions in detail. This method allowed for a more advanced evaluation of categorical data interactions than standard chi-square tests could provide. For the qualitative phase, data derived from open-ended survey responses, focus group transcripts, and observational field notes were subjected to thematic analysis. The coding process was conducted iteratively by two independent researchers to ensure intercoder reliability and validity ( 39 ). Methodological rigor was further established through data triangulation among the surveys, interviews, and onsite observations. The initial in vivo codes were clustered into broader themes. These themes were subsequently mapped against the four-axis landscape assessment rubric. This process culminates in a transformation matrix that directly links raw user feedback to specific, reproducible structural and botanical design principles. 3. Results 3.1. Sociodemographic characteristics of the participants During the quantitative phase, 250 valid responses were collected from the academic community at the selected severe cold-climate university campus. Environmental perception and spatial needs are often significantly influenced by user profiles and socio-cultural backgrounds ( 5 , 40 ). Therefore, analysing the demographic distribution of participants is essential to contextualize the subsequent design preferences. The detailed sociodemographic characteristics of the respondents are presented in Table 2 . Females comprised the majority of the sample (74.4%, n = 186), whereas males accounted for 25.6% (n = 64). With respect to age, 86.0% (n = 215) of the respondents fell within the 18–24 age bracket. This distribution strongly aligns with a typical undergraduate student profile. The 25–34 age group constituted 8.4% (n = 21) of the sample, whereas participants aged 35 and older accounted for 5.6% (n = 14). Academically, the participant pool represented a comprehensive cross-section of daily university users. Undergraduate students formed the largest group (90.8%, n = 227). This proportion ensures adequate representation of the primary beneficiaries of campus open spaces. The sample additionally included graduate and doctoral students (2.8%, n = 7), academic staff (6.0%, n = 15), and administrative personnel (0.4%, n = 1). Furthermore, the departmental breakdown accurately reflected the demographic structure of the host faculty. The majority of the participants were affiliated with the Department of Landscape Architecture (57.6%, n = 144). Other participants were enrolled in interior architecture (18.4%, n = 46), architecture (15.6%, n = 39), and city and regional planning (8.4%, n = 21). This diverse, discipline-specific participant base ensures that the evaluations of spatial design, thematic identity, and climatic adaptation are grounded in a solid, expert-level understanding of the built environment ( 23 ). Table 2 Sociodemographic profile of the survey participants (n = 250). Variables Categories Frequency (n) Percentage (%) Gender Female 186 74.4 Male 64 25.6 Age Group 18–24 215 86.0 25–34 21 8.4 35 and above 14 5.6 Academic Status Undergraduate Student 227 90.8 Graduate/Doctoral Student 7 2.8 Academic Staff 15 6.0 Administrative Staff 1 0.4 Department Landscape Architecture 144 57.6 Interior Architecture 46 18.4 Architecture 39 15.6 City and Regional Planning 21 8.4 3.2. Design Approaches, activity preferences, and equipment demands To develop user-centered micro green infrastructures, participants were asked to evaluate their preferred design approaches for campus pocket parks. As detailed in Table 3 , the "Modern and Minimalist" approach emerged as the most preferred design philosophy, selected by 64.8% (n = 162) of the respondents, which constituted 44.14% of the total selection share. This was closely followed by the "Natural and Organic" approach (46.4%, n = 116). Conversely, "Traditional and Historical" designs received the lowest preference rate at 8.4%. This strong inclination towards natural and contemporary aesthetics is consistent with recent studies highlighting that university students predominantly favor ecologically integrated and visually uncluttered restorative environments ( 41 ). To determine whether these design preferences varied across different demographic profiles, a Pearson chi-square (χ2) test was conducted. The statistical analysis indicated that variables such as gender and academic unit did not significantly influence the choice of design approach (p > 0.05). However, a statistically significant association was observed between the participants' academic status and their preference for both the "Modern and Minimalist" (p = 0.04) and "Natural and Organic" (p = 0.04) approaches. This partial variance is likely attributable to the disproportionately high representation of undergraduate students within the stratified sample. The contemporary aesthetic expectations of this specific demographic appear to significantly shape the overall design demands, confirming that the educational status and age of users are decisive factors in spatial perception and green space utilization ( 5 ). Table 3 Preferred design approaches for pocket parks and their relationships with demographic variables. Preferred Design Approach Frequency (n) Percentage (%) Share of Total (%) Gender (χ2, p) Academic Unit (χ2, p) Status (χ2, p) Modern and Minimalist 162 64.8 44.14 0.58, .44 2.44, .48 4.07, .04* Natural and Organic 116 46.4 31.61 0.61, .43 1.27, .73 6.38, .04* Traditional and Historical 21 8.4 5.72 1.88, .17 2.80, .42 0.78, .67 Colorful and Artistic 68 27.2 18.53 0.62, .43 3.45, .33 0.66, .72 Total 367 - 100.00 * p < 0.05 Following the establishment of the overarching design philosophy, the study investigated functional expectations regarding the primary activities that participants preferred to engage in within these spaces (Table 4 ). The highest priorities were "Socialization Needs" (74.4%, n = 186) and "Resting/Relaxation" (73.2%, n = 183). These preferences strongly reinforce the role of pocket parks as restorative "third places" within harsh academic environments, functioning as vital socio-spatial anchors where spontaneous interaction and mental recovery occur ( 24 ). Furthermore, 48.4% of the participants expressed a desire to use these open spaces for educational purposes, such as studying and reading. This substantial demand for outdoor learning highlights the necessity of integrating informal learning settings into traditional campus landscapes to support diverse educational pedagogies ( 42 , 43 ). Chi-square analysis revealed that most activity preferences were homogeneous across demographic groups, indicating a universal consensus on the core functions of micro green infrastructures. However, a statistically significant relationship was identified between the "Academic Unit" variable and the preference for "Artistic/Cultural Events" (p = 0.04). This statistical divergence suggests that students from specific design disciplines—such as architecture and landscape architecture—may have varying expectations regarding the programmatic flexibility and event-hosting capabilities of campus open spaces, viewing these areas not just as restorative retreats but as active, performative landscapes ( 44 ). Table 4 Preferred activities for pocket park design and their relationship with demographic variables. Preferred Activity Frequency (n) Percentage (%) Share of Total (%) Gender (χ2, p) Academic Unit (χ2, p) Status (χ2, p) Socialization Needs 186 74.4 20.42 2.35, .13 0.82, .84 5.24, .07 Resting/Relaxation 183 73.2 20.09 0.02, .96 5.18, .16 0.72, .70 Eating/Drinking 124 49.6 13.61 0.89, .35 5.68, .13 4.48, .11 Studying/Reading/Educational Activities 121 48.4 13.28 0.33, .57 0.51, .92 3.39, .18 Spending Time with Nature 111 44.4 12.18 0.21, .64 5.73, .13 0.47, .79 Workshop Activities 86 34.4 9.44 2.34, .13 1.41, .70 1.92, .38 Artistic/Cultural Events 63 25.2 6.92 1.99, .17 8.52, .04* 1.44, .49 Sports/Physical Activity 37 14.8 4.06 0.04, .85 5.97, .11 1.35, .51 Total 911 - 100.00 * p < 0.05 To successfully accommodate these diverse activities, the participants identified specific structural elements and equipment deemed necessary for the proposed pocket parks (Table 5 ). The responses generated a total of 1,004 selection hits, indicating a robust demand for well-equipped and highly functional micro-infrastructures. The most critical requirement was "Seating Units," which was demanded by an overwhelming 86.4% of the participants (representing 21.51% of the total votes). "Green Spaces and Planting" followed closely, with a 73.2% preference rate. This confirms that the availability of comfortable, ergonomic seating integrated with rich botanical elements is the primary catalyst for prolonged stationary activities and social interactions in urban parks ( 5 , 17 ). Considering the severe climatic conditions of the study area, 55.2% of the users specifically demanded "Shaded Resting Areas" to regulate their thermal comfort. In high-altitude continental climates, where intense summer solar radiation rapidly replaces freezing winter temperatures, the provision of dynamic shading elements is essential to prevent the spatial abandonment of parks during the hotter academic months ( 45 ). Additionally, 47.6% of the respondents requested structural arrangements for open-air studies and workshops. This reflects a growing pedagogical shift towards outdoor "learning landscapes," where students can work collaboratively in nature-based settings outside the traditional classroom walls ( 46 ). Furthermore, water features and lighting elements were deemed necessary by 37.6% and 38.8% of the participants, respectively. While water features significantly enhance the sensory and restorative quality of the environment by masking urban noise, adequate lighting extends the usability and perceived safety of these spaces during the darker, shorter days of the winter season ( 47 ). Table 5 Desired equipment and spatial elements in campus pocket parks. Desired Equipment and Elements Frequency (n) Percentage (%) Share of Total (%) Seating Units (Benches, cushioned seating, etc.) 216 86.4 21.51 Green Spaces and Planting 183 73.2 18.23 Shaded Resting Areas 138 55.2 13.75 Open-air Studying/Workshop Spaces 119 47.6 11.85 Lighting Elements 97 38.8 9.66 Water Features (Pools, ornamental waterfalls, etc.) 94 37.6 9.36 Artistic Design Elements (Sculptures, wall art, etc.) 86 34.4 8.57 Open-air Event Spaces 71 28.4 7.07 Total 1004 - 100.00 4. Discussion 4.1. Contextualizing Micro-Green Infrastructures within Global and National Climate Strategies The empirical findings of this study demonstrate that micro green infrastructure, specifically campus pocket parks, is not merely an aesthetic addition to the built environment. Instead, these parks function as highly effective, climate-responsive socioecological units. This paradigm aligns strongly with the macrolevel sustainability targets established by international policy frameworks. The transition toward climate-neutral urban environments is heavily emphasized by the European Union’s Green Deal. This initiative advocates for the systematic integration of nature-based solutions (NBSs) into urban planning. Such integration is essential for enhancing biodiversity, mitigating the urban heat island (UHI) effect, and improving public health ( 48 ). The methodology presented in this study translates end-user expectations into a reproducible landscape assessment rubric (Table 1 ). This approach directly supports the EU Green Deal mandate for inclusive and resilient green transformations. Furthermore, the design and implementation of pocket parks respond directly to several of the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By prioritizing xeriscaping and sustainable water management, these microspaces actively contribute to SDG 13 (climate action). Simultaneously, they foster social cohesion and provide restorative environments for academic communities. These functions fulfil the core objectives of SDG 3 (good health and well-being) and SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities) ( 49 ). The European Commission’s Horizon 2020 research innovation programs, particularly flagship projects such as Nature4Cities and URBAN GreenUP, provide substantial evidence for these interventions. They demonstrated that small-scale, decentralized nature-based interventions are highly effective in renaturing urban plans and creating smart, resilient ecological corridors ( 50 , 51 ). The Nature4Cities framework emphasizes that the technical performance of an NBS must be coupled with participatory governance. This principle validates the methodological reliance of the present study on survey-based participatory data to dictate botanical and structural typologies. In the national context, the findings of this study strongly resonate with the spatial and ecological targets outlined in the Republic of Turkey’s 12th Development Plan (2024–2028) and the National Climate Change Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan. The 12th Development Plan explicitly highlights the necessity of "green transformation" and the creation of "sustainable and disaster-resilient cities". These goals are achieved through the expansion of urban green infrastructure and water-sensitive landscaping ( 52 , 53 ). By integrating xeriscaping principles into cold-climate campus design, the proposed model offers a scalable blueprint for Turkish higher education institutions. This framework enables institutions to align their spatial planning with national carbon-reduction and climate-adaptation targets. 4.2. Socio-Spatial Dynamics and the "Third Place" Concept in Campus Environments The quantitative results reveal a significant preference for the "Modern and Minimalist" design approach (64.8%), particularly among undergraduate students (p = 0.04). This aesthetic inclination reflects a broader generational shift toward legible, uncluttered, and highly functional public spaces. Furthermore, the strong demand for "resting/relaxation" (73.2%) and "socialization" (74.4%) solidifies the conceptualization of campus pocket parks as essential "third places". Sociological studies, including the qualitative research conducted by D’Andrea Brooks et al. ( 24 ), define these spaces as crucial environments outside residential and formal classroom settings. Within these areas, spontaneous interactions and community building occur, which significantly mitigate academic stress. These findings contrast with traditional campus planning models, which often prioritize monumental, large-scale green lawns over intimate, human-scale spaces. Nordh and Østby ( 3 ) reported that the restorative potential of an urban space depends heavily on natural components, such as greenery and water, combined with an adequate sense of enclosure. Similarly, Lau and Yang ( 54 ) emphasized that inserting small-scale "healing gardens" into compact, high-density campuses provides manageable microclimates that foster psychological restoration. The academic community's specific demand for seating units (86.4%) and dedicated open-air study spaces (47.6%) explicitly calls for the spatial materialization of these restorative theories. Consequently, the contemporary campus is no longer viewed merely as an educational container. Instead, it functions as a "learning landscape" where social interaction and intellectual discovery are spatially intertwined. 4.3. Microclimate Modulation, and the Duality of Shading in Winter Cities The successful management of microclimatic conditions is a critical aspect of designing public spaces in severe cold-climate regions. The temporal usage preferences identified in this study demonstrate a direct behavioral response to the harsh environmental constraints of a high-altitude winter city. Specifically, 64.4% of the respondents favoured afternoon usage, whereas 16.4% preferred morning usage. Morning frost, slippery surfaces, and sub-zero temperatures physically restrict outdoor mobility. These behavioral patterns correspond with the environmental stressor models discussed by McDonald-Yale and Birchall ( 9 ), who argue that built environments in winter cities must be specifically designed to minimize wind chill and maximize solar capture to ensure student well-being. Furthermore, user concerns regarding both "insufficient shading" (40.4%) and "excessive shading" (34.8%) illustrate the complex climatic duality of continental severe cold regions. These regions typically experience prolonged, freezing winters alongside intense, arid summers. Recent environmental simulation studies utilizing ENVI-met support this duality. Qin and Zhou ( 14 ) demonstrated that optimizing the ratio of deciduous to evergreen trees, such as by employing a 60/40 grid configuration, is essential for balancing seasonal thermal comfort. Deciduous trees provide critical shading to lower the physiological equivalent temperature (PET) during summer. Conversely, they shed leaves in winter to allow solar radiation to penetrate. Simultaneously, evergreen species act as effective windbreaks against harsh winter corridors. Similarly, Tao et al. ( 15 ) highlighted that landscape elements, including plant configuration and surface albedo, exert a dominant influence on thermal perception in severely cold regions. Therefore, the application of the proposed landscape assessment rubric (Axis 2: Climatic & Geographic Suitability) dictates the use of flexible, seasonal botanical designs. These designs must adapt to extreme thermal swings rather than relying on static, temperate-zone templates. 4.4. The Maintenance Paradox and Operational Lessons from Global Pocket Parks The survey results revealed a significant concern regarding a "Lack of Cleaning and Maintenance" (80.4%), which emerged as the primary anticipated problem among participants. This apprehension highlights a critical "maintenance paradox" in urban landscape architecture: highly complex, resource-intensive designs frequently fail shortly after implementation because the prohibitive costs of post-occupancy upkeep remain high. In severely cold climates, maintenance extends beyond aesthetic pruning; it strictly requires snow clearance, ice mitigation, and the continuous management of dormant vegetation. To address this challenge, successful and active pocket parks must be analysed globally. In the United States, William S. Paley Park (1967) and Greenacre Park (1971) in New York City serve as foundational archetypes of successful micro green infrastructures. Despite their highly dense urban context, these parks maintain high vitality through flexible, movable seating, which allows users to actively seek sun or shade. Additionally, dynamic water features, such as water walls, generate white noise to mask urban traffic ( 55 , 56 ). These acoustic interventions directly address the "Noise Problems" anticipated by 48.0% of the surveyed participants. Furthermore, the operational success of these case studies relies on meticulous, privately managed maintenance models and the selection of highly durable hardscapes. In winter-specific contexts, the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park (New York City) provides a strong example of seasonal adaptability. The Park transitions from a summer lawn to an active winter destination by incorporating ice-skating and modular pop-up structures. Consequently, this transformation normalizes outdoor public life at freezing temperatures. The integration of such adaptive principles is reflected in the "Modern Trends Integration" parameter of the proposed landscape assessment rubric. This integration allows campus pocket parks to utilize pop-up elements, temporary tactical urbanism, and low-maintenance xeriscaping. The incorporation of drought-tolerant and frost-resistant species minimizes irrigation needs during summer and significantly reduces the amount of labor required for winterization. Ultimately, these strategies transform the maintenance burden into an ecologically sustainable operational model. 4.5. Methodological Implications and Limitations The participatory framework utilized in this study shifts the paradigm of campus landscape design from a top-down, expert-driven imposition to a bottom-up, crowdsensed methodology ( 16 , 27 ). By utilizing the proposed Thematic and Modern Landscape Assessment Rubric, raw user data are systematically converted into tangible architectural and botanical parameters. This study confirms that the academic community possesses a profound, tacit understanding of its microclimatic and socio-spatial needs. When properly extracted, this understanding provides a highly reliable foundation for sustainable design. Despite these robust findings, several limitations must be acknowledged. First, the quantitative sample was heavily skewed toward female participants (74.4%) and students from design-related disciplines (e.g., landscape architecture, 57.6%). While this demographic provided highly informed and aesthetically conscious feedback, it may limit the generalizability of the findings to the broader, non-design-oriented student population. Second, the research relied predominantly on subjective thermal perception and anticipated behavioral patterns. Future research should integrate objective, on-site physical measurements to cross-validate these subjective preferences with empirical climatic data. Such measurements could include deploying ENVI-met microclimate simulations ( 14 , 15 ), portable weather stations, and long-term behavioral mapping. Furthermore, integrating the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart-campus technologies, as explored in the Nature4Cities paradigm ( 50 ), could enhance the real-time monitoring and adaptive management of this vital micro green infrastructure. 5. Conclusion The integration of micro green infrastructures into university campuses represents a critical shift toward socially sustainable and environmentally resilient learning landscapes. However, imposing temperate-zone design templates onto high-altitude, severe cold-climate regions often results in spatial abandonment and operational failure. This study addresses this critical gap by employing a participatory, mixed-methods approach to determine the design principles for climate-adaptive, nature-based pocket parks tailored specifically to winter cities. The empirical findings demonstrate that the academic community envisions campus pocket parks not merely as aesthetic transit corridors, but as indispensable "third places" ( 24 ). The strong demand for seating units (86.4%), socialization zones (74.4%), and restorative environments highlights a profound need for human-scaled, modern, and minimalist open spaces that mitigate academic stress. Furthermore, the study revealed that spatial preferences in severe cold climates are heavily dictated by microclimatic stressors. The temporal concentration of outdoor usage during midday and afternoon hours corresponds with the participants' dual concerns regarding both "insufficient" and "excessive" shading. This finding indicates that seasonal thermal adaptability is a vital functional requirement. Additionally, 80.4% of the participants identified a "lack of cleaning and maintenance" as their primary concern, highlighting a critical post-occupancy management burden in landscape architecture. In winter cities, aesthetic design becomes ineffective without robust operational management, particularly with respect to snow clearance and ice mitigation. To resolve these interconnected socio-spatial and climatic challenges, the primary practical contribution of this research is the development of the Thematic and Modern Landscape Assessment Rubric. By synthesizing quantitative user data and qualitative focus group narratives, this four-axis matrix provides a reproducible, evidence-based blueprint. It dictates the utilization of xeriscaping, drought-tolerant native species, and modular hardscapes to ensure year-round usability and minimize maintenance burdens. At the macro-level, this study confirms that localized campus interventions, when guided by participatory governance, directly support the broader objectives of the European Union’s Green Deal, the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and national green transformation strategies ( 48 , 49 , 52 , 53 ). For future research, cross-validating these subjective user perceptions with objective meteorological data is recommended. This can be achieved through ENVI-met microclimate simulations ( 14 , 15 ) and the integration of Internet of Things (IoT)-based smart campus monitoring systems ( 50 ). Ultimately, university administrations and urban planners must move beyond season-blind planning practices and temperate-centric design approaches. By adopting the climate-responsive and participatory framework proposed in this study, higher education institutions in severe cold regions can successfully transform their harsh outdoor environments into vibrant, sustainable, and resilient learning landscapes. Declarations Acknowledgements The authors would like to express their sincere gratitude to the students, academic staff, and administrative personnel of Atatürk University for their valuable time and voluntary participation in the surveys and focus group discussions. Their insightful feedback was the cornerstone of this participatory research. Author contributions H.V., F.K., and M.Ö. conceptualized the study and designed the methodology. G.A.A., M.Ö., A.K., and S.C. conducted the field investigations, including the distribution of surveys and facilitation of focus groups. H.V. and S.C. performed the formal data analysis and synthesized the findings into the assessment rubric. S.C. and G.A.A. developed the conceptual spatial sketches and visualizations. F.K., A.K., and H.V. wrote the main manuscript text. F.K. supervised the research and critically reviewed the manuscript. All authors reviewed and approved the final manuscript. Funding Declaration This research received no external funding. Competing interests The authors declare no competing interests in producing this article, neither in personal nor financial matters. Data availability The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request. Institutional Review Board Statement The study protocol, including the survey instruments and data management plans, was reviewed and approved by the Science and Engineering Sciences Ethics Committee of Atatürk University (Approval date: 30.01.2026, Decision No: 5). All research procedures were performed in accordance with relevant guidelines and regulations (e.g., the Declaration of Helsinki). Informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to the commencement of the online survey and focus group interviews. The data were collected anonymously, ensuring that no personally identifiable information was recorded, thereby protecting participant privacy and fulfilling institutional ethical mandates. References Dong, J. et al. Pocket parks: A systematic literature review. Environ. Res. Lett. 18 , 083003 (2023). Rosso, F., Cappa, F., Spitzmiller, R. & Ferrero, M. Pocket parks towards more sustainable cities: Architectural, environmental, managerial and legal considerations. Environ. Chall. 7 , 100402 (2022). Nordh, H. & Østby, K. Pocket parks for people – A study of park design and use. Urban For. Urban Green. 12 , 12–17 (2013). Zhang, H. & Han, M. Pocket parks in English and Chinese literature: A review. Urban For. 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University campus as a public space of the city: Case study: Eastern Mediterranean University campus. Master's thesis, Eastern Mediterranean University (2013). Alzamil, W., Salih, S. A., Ismail, S., Ajlan, A. & Azmi, A. Factors affecting social learning in nearby pockets on tropical campus grounds: Towards a sustainable campus. Sustainability 15 , 16581 (2023). Salih, S. A., Ismail, S., Ujang, N., Mustafa, F. A. & Ismail, N. A. Pocket settings for enhancing social learning experience on campus ground: A verbal-visual preference survey. Ain Shams Eng. J. 14 , 102134 (2023). D’Andrea Brooks, O., Thanganathan, R. & Gittings, L. Growing third places: A qualitative study of experiences and perceived benefits of a campus community garden as a nature-based health intervention. PLoS One 20 , e0338602 (2025). Patel, A., Hill, W., Wesseling, K., Standen, C. & Carruthers, R. The role of a campus herb garden in promoting social and personal wellbeing in naturopathic students. Adv. Integr. Med. 11 , 107–112 (2024). Gawryluk, D., Biała, I. & Gawrychowska, M. Concept of pocket gardens on the campus of Bialystok University of Technology as a result of a survey of the academic community. Econ. Environ. 1 , 88 (2024). Johnson, L. & Castleden, H. Greening the campus without grass: Using visual methods to understand and integrate student perspectives in campus landscape development and water conservation initiatives. Area 43 , 353–361 (2011). Mak, B. K. L. & Jim, C. Y. Linking park users' socio-demographic characteristics and visit-related preferences to improve urban parks. Cities 92 , 97-111 (2019). Muljono, A. G., Asteria, D., Sundara, D. M. & Soesilo, T. E. B. Understanding pocket garden users’ perspective for urban campus garden sustainability. IOP Conf. Ser.: Earth Environ. Sci. 716 , 012123 (2021). Halıcı, K. Erzurum Atatürk Üniversitesi kampüsünün modern mimarlık mirası açısından değerlendirilmesi. Master's thesis, İstanbul Bilgi Üniversitesi (2022). Bakırcı, K., Özyurt, Ö., Yılmaz, M. & Erdoğan, S. Erzurum İli Enerji Çalışmaları için İklim ve Meteoroloji Verileri. Tesisat Mühendisliği Dergisi 95 , 19-26 (2006). Yılmaz, H. & Irmak, M. A. Yerleşke Planlamasında Bitkisel Tasarım İlkeleri, Atatürk Üniversitesi Yerleşkesi Örneği. Atatürk Üniversitesi Yayınları (2012). Açıksöz, S., Cengiz, B., Bekci, B., Cengiz, C. & Gökçe, G. C. Üniversite yerleşkelerindeki açık ve yeşil alan sisteminin planlanması ve yönetimi. Kastamonu Üni. Orman Fak. Derg. 14 , 222-236 (2014). Zamanifard, H., Alizadeh, T., Bosman, C. & Coiacetto, E. Measuring experiential qualities of urban public spaces: users’ perspective. J. Urban Des. 24 , 540-564 (2019). Wang, X., Rodiek, J., Wu, C., Chen, Y. & Li, Y. Stress recovery and restorative effects of viewing different urban park scenes. Urban For. Urban Green. 42 , 126353 (2019). Marcus, C. C. & Sachs, N. A. Therapeutic Landscapes: An Evidence-Based Approach to Designing Healing Gardens and Restorative Outdoor Spaces. John Wiley & Sons (2013). Huang, J. et al. Developing a low-maintenance and climate-resilient plant evaluation framework for urban green spaces. Ecol. Indic. 135 , 108523 (2022). Zhao, J., Ouyang, Z., Zheng, H., Zhou, W. & Wang, X. Plant species composition in green spaces within the built-up areas of Beijing, China. Plant Ecol. 209 , 189-199 (2010). Braun, V. & Clarke, V. Using thematic analysis in psychology. Qual. Res. Psychol. 3 , 77–101 (2006). Naghibi, M., Faizi, M. & Ekhlassi, A. Design guidelines for urban leftover spaces: A crowdsourced evaluation of planting enclosure in pocket parks. Urban For. Urban Green. 64 , 127273 (2021). Hami, A. & Abdi, B. Students’ landscaping preferences for open spaces for their campus environment. Indoor Built Environ. 30 , 87–98 (2021). Ibrahim, N. & Fadzil, N. H. Informal setting for learning on campus: Usage and preference. Procedia-Soc. Behav. Sci. 105 , 344–351 (2013). Wu, X., Kou, Z., Oldfield, P., Heath, T. & Borsi, K. Informal learning spaces in higher education: Student preferences and activities. Buildings 11 , 252 (2021). Peker, E. & Ataöv, A. Exploring the ways in which campus open space design influences students’ learning experiences. Landsc. Res. 45 , 310–326 (2020). Elgheznawy, D. & Eltarabily, S. The impact of sun sail-shading strategy on the thermal comfort in school courtyards. Build. Environ. 202 , 108046 (2021). Mangone, G., Capaldi, C. A., van Allen, Z. M. & Luscuere, P. G. Bringing nature to work: Preferences and perceptions of constructed indoor and natural outdoor workspaces. Urban For. Urban Green. 23 , 1–12 (2017). White, M., Smith, A., Humphryes, K., Pahl, S., Snelling, D. & Depledge, M. Blue space: The importance of water for preference, affect, and restorativeness ratings of natural and built scenes. J. Environ. Psychol. 30 , 482-493 (2010). European Commission. The European Green Deal. Communication COM/2019/640 final (2019). United Nations (UN). Transforming our world: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Resolution A/RES/70/1 (2015). Nature4Cities. Nature Based Solutions for urban resilience and sustainable development. EU Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme. Grant Agreement No. 730468 (2020). URBAN GreenUP. New Strategy for Re-Naturing Cities through Nature-Based Solutions. EU Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programme. Grant Agreement No. 730426 (2022). Presidency of Strategy and Budget. Twelfth Development Plan (2024-2028). Republic of Turkey, Ankara (2023). Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change. National Climate Change Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan. Republic of Turkey (2023). Lau, S. S. Y. & Yang, F. Introducing healing gardens into a compact university campus: Design natural space to create healthy and sustainable campuses. Landsc. Res. 34 , 55–81 (2009). Whyte, W. H. The Social Life of Small Urban Spaces. Conservation Foundation, Washington, DC. (1980). Tate, A. Great City Parks. 2nd edn. Routledge, London. (2015). Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Cite Share Download PDF Status: Under Review Version 1 posted Reviews received at journal 05 May, 2026 Reviewers agreed at journal 04 May, 2026 Reviewers agreed at journal 03 May, 2026 Reviewers invited by journal 28 Apr, 2026 Editor invited by journal 28 Apr, 2026 Editor assigned by journal 16 Apr, 2026 Submission checks completed at journal 16 Apr, 2026 First submitted to journal 12 Apr, 2026 You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. 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Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-9396924","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":634807296,"identity":"099d603a-b607-4119-848b-42747b63ec12","order_by":0,"name":"Hüccet Vural","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Bingöl University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Hüccet","middleName":"","lastName":"Vural","suffix":""},{"id":634807297,"identity":"834e4fa0-c0d9-48d8-bf79-9e197837f3ce","order_by":1,"name":"Mustafa Özgeriş","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Atatürk University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Mustafa","middleName":"","lastName":"Özgeriş","suffix":""},{"id":634807298,"identity":"b9c318f8-9b38-485b-b4f0-3a1da118477a","order_by":2,"name":"Ayşe Karahan","email":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAA7klEQVRIiWNgGAWjYDACHiBmbGBg4IdwJYA4gUgtkg3MSFoOEKPF4AAzTIiAFv6ew88+/Nxhl2d8/PzBz7w7LBj42XMMmD/uwa1F4myb8czeM8nFZmeSmaV5z0gwSPa8MWA48AyPNecZjBl425gTtx1IZpDmbZNgMLiRA9SCx2Xy59k/M/5tq0/c3P+Y+TdIiz0hLQZne4yZedsOJ26QSGaD2CJBQIvhmTPFzLJtxxNn3HhsZjm3TYJH4syzggNn8GiRO5O+mfFtW3Vif3/i4xtv2+rk+NuTNz6owKMFA4DiCX9MjoJRMApGwSggDADtyFJiBnJnjAAAAABJRU5ErkJggg==","orcid":"","institution":"Atatürk University","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Ayşe","middleName":"","lastName":"Karahan","suffix":""},{"id":634807299,"identity":"e7fab7df-750c-4686-87e7-1220bba1ce7c","order_by":3,"name":"Selim Cinisli","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Atatürk University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Selim","middleName":"","lastName":"Cinisli","suffix":""},{"id":634807300,"identity":"7f6329c9-5370-45d0-b022-ebc5e15b1d21","order_by":4,"name":"Gizem Azra Alankuş","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Atatürk University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Gizem","middleName":"Azra","lastName":"Alankuş","suffix":""},{"id":634807301,"identity":"c4169f40-6005-4b95-a3da-35d304156f61","order_by":5,"name":"Faris Karahan","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Atatürk University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"Faris","middleName":"","lastName":"Karahan","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2026-04-12 21:53:16","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":"","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-9396924/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-9396924/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":108714326,"identity":"86640659-35a7-41ba-8e9e-cefcabac39e7","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-05-07 14:52:47","extension":"jpeg","order_by":1,"title":"Figure 1","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":1572002,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eGeographical location and spatial morphology of the selected cold-climate university campus\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage1.jpeg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-9396924/v1/a53b22dc9ca2b6b8eacc8ee8.jpeg"},{"id":108714327,"identity":"63917016-a61e-47da-9d7a-c8b01ac1ae1c","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-05-07 14:52:47","extension":"png","order_by":2,"title":"Figure 2","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":2606327,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eSurvey board illustrating selected features of the Faculty of Architecture and Design\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage2.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-9396924/v1/9f816d4c1c2809af35969ad1.png"},{"id":108805728,"identity":"b61e0817-f7b2-4f3e-b385-862bb5c1eb4f","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-05-08 15:26:44","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":4383884,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-9396924/v1/f87fb476-ce28-49ec-a846-5d72e8d72021.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Co-Creating Climate-Resilient Campuses: A Participatory Framework for Nature-Based Micro Green Infrastructures in Severe Cold Climates","fulltext":[{"header":"1. Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe intensifying impacts of global climate change and rapid urbanization have compelled cities to fundamentally rethink their spatial infrastructures (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e). In response, micro green infrastructures, particularly pocket parks, have gained critical prominence as nature-based solutions (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e). Unlike large-scale urban parks that require extensive land and financial resources, pocket parks are highly adaptable, decentralized \"stepping stones\" of biodiversity that provide immediate psychological restoration and microclimatic regulation to local communities (\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR4\" citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e). Recent systemic reviews demonstrate that these small-scale interventions are not merely aesthetic additions but are essential values for sustainable urban frameworks (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUniversity campuses, often functioning as autonomous micro-cities, present a unique context for the deployment of these micro green infrastructures (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e). Recent literature emphasizes that the spatial quality and greenness of campus grounds profoundly dictate the academic community's quality of life, institutional satisfaction, and overall wellbeing (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e). However, the global discourse on sustainable campus design has been overwhelmingly skewed toward temperate or tropical climates (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e). In high-altitude, severe cold-climate regions (winter cities), traditional landscape planning frequently defaults to temperate-centric paradigms (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e). Consequently, outdoor campus spaces designed with a summer-oriented landscape paradigm fail to block harsh winter winds or manage heavy snow loads, leading to the spatial abandonment of these environments for more than half of the academic year (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e12\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo address the severe climatic stressors in winter cities, conventional engineering approaches have historically relied on pure meteorological measurements and digital microclimate simulations (\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR14\" citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e13\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e). While these objective metrics are valuable, recent paradigm shifts in urban design recognize that climate-resilient infrastructure is fundamentally a socio-spatial phenomenon (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e16\u003c/span\u003e). Objective thermal indices often fail to capture the \"perceived outdoor thermal comfort\" of the actual users (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e). Survey-based participatory methodologies and urban data demonstrate that human spatial perception, demographic variables, and psychological adaptation play a far more decisive role in the actual usage of outdoor spaces than mere physical temperature (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e18\u003c/span\u003e). Therefore, imposing strict architectural typologies without integrating the subjective thermal sensations and functional demands of the end-users frequently results in operational failure (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e19\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eContemporary landscape architecture increasingly champions participatory planning as a cornerstone of sustainable design (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR20\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e20\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR21\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e21\u003c/span\u003e). When university students and staff are actively involved in the design process, campus green spaces transcend their role as mere transit corridors and transform into vital \"third places\" that facilitate informal social learning and community attachment (\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR23\" citationid=\"CR22\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e22\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e24\u003c/span\u003e). Integrating user feedback\u0026mdash;especially concerning botanical preferences, functional amenities, and shading requirements\u0026mdash;into the early phases of design is the only viable method to ensure the long-term social sustainability of nature-based interventions (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR25\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e25\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR26\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e26\u003c/span\u003e). Consequently, the use of visual surveys and direct participant feedback is now considered fundamental in developing climate-responsive campus landscapes (\u003cspan additionalcitationids=\"CR28\" citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e27\u003c/span\u003e\u0026ndash;\u003cspan citationid=\"CR29\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e29\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDespite the growing consensus on participatory design, there is a distinct lack of actionable, reproducible frameworks tailored for severe cold-climate university campuses (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e30\u003c/span\u003e). Focusing on Erzurum, Turkey\u0026mdash;one of the highest-altitude urban settlements globally, characterized by prolonged and harsh winters\u0026mdash;this study aims to bridge the gap between objective microclimatic challenges and subjective user perceptions (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR31\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e31\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR32\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e32\u003c/span\u003e). By employing a mixed-methods participatory approach, integrating quantitative surveys (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;250) and qualitative focus groups, this research answers the critical question: How can survey-based participatory data dictate the structural and botanical typologies required to create climate-adaptive pocket parks in winter cities? (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR33\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e33\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUltimately, this study synthesizes these crowdsourced spatial demands to develop a novel, reproducible \"Thematic and Modern Landscape Assessment Rubric\". This framework is designed not only to guide university administrations and landscape architects in transforming their season-blind campus grounds into vibrant, year-round learning landscapes but also to serve as a scalable socio-ecological blueprint for broader urban resilience strategies in severe cold climates.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"2. Methods","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec3\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.1. Study Area Context\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe research was conducted at the main campus of Atat\u0026uuml;rk University, located in Erzurum, Turkey (Figs.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e and \u003cspan refid=\"Fig2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e). Situated at an altitude of approximately 1,900 meters, Erzurum is characterized by a severe continental climate with prolonged, harsh winters and significant snow accumulation (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR31\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e31\u003c/span\u003e). Functioning as an autonomous micro-city since its establishment in 1957, the campus was originally planned with modernist architectural principles and temperate-centric landscape paradigms (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR30\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e30\u003c/span\u003e). Over time, this \"season-blind\" planning has resulted in wind-swept, underutilized outdoor spaces that lack adequate microclimatic protection, making the campus grounds largely inhospitable for social learning and restorative activities during the winter months.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec4\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.2. Study Design and Ethical Considerations\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo address these socio-spatial deficiencies, this study adopted a mixed-methods participatory research design, synthesizing quantitative crowdsourced surveys with qualitative spatial assessments. This approach is widely recognized as a robust framework for capturing the \"perceived outdoor thermal comfort\" and functional demands of park users in micro green infrastructures (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e23\u003c/span\u003e). All research protocols, including the questionnaire design and focus group methodologies, were rigorously reviewed and approved by the Science and Engineering Ethics Committee of Atat\u0026uuml;rk University (Approval Date: 30.01.2026, Decision No: 5). Informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to data collection, and the study was conducted in strict accordance with the ethical guidelines for human subjects research.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec5\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.3. Data Collection: Survey and Participatory Demands\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eData were collected through a structured visual-verbal preference survey distributed to a stratified sample of the academic community, encompassing students, academic staff, and administrative personnel (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;250). The questionnaire was deliberately designed to identify the primary post-occupancy management burdens, seasonal thermal flexibility needs, and specific design expectations for potential pocket parks. For instance, the survey specifically queried participants on concerns such as \"lack of cleaning and maintenance\" and \"inadequate shading\", which are critical parameters for ensuring the long-term sustainability and social acceptance of nature-based interventions (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e16\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e23\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec6\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.4. Synthesis of Participatory Data and the 4-Axis Rubric\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe quantitative analysis of the survey (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;250) revealed distinct participatory demands that profoundly shaped our design methodology. A significant majority of the academic community indicated a strong preference for \"Modern and Minimalist\" (64.8%) and \"Natural and Organic\" (46.4%) design approaches. Crucially, the overwhelming anxiety regarding the \"lack of cleaning and maintenance\" (80.4%) underscored the necessity of abandoning high-maintenance exotic plants in favor of resilient, low-maintenance botanical typologies. To translate these crowdsourced subjective preferences into a highly objective and reproducible design framework, we developed the \"Thematic and Modern Landscape Assessment Rubric\" (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e). This assessment tool was constructed by synthesizing the survey outputs with contemporary landscape evaluation methodologies, transforming raw user perception into actionable urban design metrics (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR34\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e34\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR35\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e35\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe developed rubric systematically evaluates potential micro green infrastructures across four primary axes: Structural, Botanical, Climatic, and Philosophical. The Structural axis addresses the physical layout, emphasizing minimalist seating and accessible pathways to meet the 64.8% demand for modernism. Simultaneously, the Climatic axis focuses on seasonal thermal flexibility, directly addressing the users' paradoxical demands for both shaded (55.2%) and sun-exposed (40.4%) areas. Furthermore, the Botanical and Philosophical axes are tightly integrated to propose specific thematic garden typologies\u0026mdash;such as Alpine Rock Gardens, Butterfly Gardens, and Healing/Aromatic Gardens (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR36\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e36\u003c/span\u003e). Utilizing such ecologically adapted plant species directly mitigates the post-occupancy management burden, ensuring that the pocket parks remain functionally and aesthetically viable even during Erzurum's severe winter conditions (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR37\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e37\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR38\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e38\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe Thematic and Modern Landscape Assessment Rubric, illustrating the four primary axes and subparameters used to evaluate the climatic, botanical, and structural suitability of pocket parks.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"3\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEvaluation Axes\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSub-Parameters\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDescription of the Criteria\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAXIS 1: Design Philosophy \u0026amp; Thematic Identity\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThematic Clarity\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe degree to which the design reflects the core philosophy of the referenced garden style (e.g., asymmetry in Zen, fourfold symmetry in Char-Bagh).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eModern Trends Integration\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCompatibility with modern design parameters such as tactical urbanism, pop-up spaces, or multisensory experiential learning approaches.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eUser Interaction\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe capacity of the design to establish a human-space relationship (e.g., observation in butterfly gardens, healing in therapeutic gardens).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAXIS 2: Climatic \u0026amp; Geographic Suitability\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eClimatic Adaptation\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe appropriateness of the thematic selection for local climate zones, such as utilizing xeriscaping for arid or severe cold regions.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMicroclimate \u0026amp; Heat Management\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eProvision of thermal comfort using semiclosed seating corners, shading elements, pergolas, or water features.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSustainable Infrastructure\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe presence of rain gardens, green roofs, biofiltration areas, or low-water consumption (drip) irrigation systems.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAXIS 3: Spatial \u0026amp; Structural Components\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eUse of Water Features\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe aesthetic and functional integration of water, whether stagnant (reflection), flowing (channels), or symbolic (sand waves).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBoundary \u0026amp; Transition Elements\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe proper use of space-defining elements like high walls, natural stone borders, curved transitions, or stepping stones.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFloor Materials\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe ecological and thematic balancing of hardscapes such as gravel, wooden decks, geometric mosaics, or compacted earth paths.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"2\" rowspan=\"3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAXIS 4: Thematic Botanical Design\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eProper Use of Species\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe utilization of specific trees, shrubs, or ground covers strictly required by the theme (e.g., lavender for xeriscape, sycamore for Islamic gardens).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEcological \u0026amp; Educational Function\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe contribution of plants to biodiversity (pollinator-friendly species), medicinal/aromatic benefits, or the use of native plants.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSeasonal Flexibility \u0026amp; Maintenance\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe success of low-maintenance plant configurations that evoke different visual and sensory interests throughout the year.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAs a final methodological step to validate the practical applicability of this rubric, well-known global landscape typologies (e.g., Zen, Scandinavian, Char-Bagh) were selected as test models. Conceptual spatial schemes were developed to demonstrate how these established design philosophies can be structurally and botanically adapted to severe cold climates using the proposed rubric.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec7\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e2.5. Data Analysis Procedure\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eData analysis was conducted following a rigorous bipartite procedure. The quantitative survey data were imported into IBM SPSS Statistics (Version 26.0) for statistical evaluation. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies and percentages, were generated to summarize demographic profiles and general pocket park usage preferences. The Pearson chi-square (χ2) test was used to explore the complex relationships between independent demographic variables and categorical dependent variables. Statistical significance was established at the p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05 level, reflecting the standard threshold for sociospatial studies (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e16\u003c/span\u003e). Additionally, a log-linear model analysis was employed to examine design approach suggestions in detail. This method allowed for a more advanced evaluation of categorical data interactions than standard chi-square tests could provide.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFor the qualitative phase, data derived from open-ended survey responses, focus group transcripts, and observational field notes were subjected to thematic analysis. The coding process was conducted iteratively by two independent researchers to ensure intercoder reliability and validity (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR39\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e39\u003c/span\u003e). Methodological rigor was further established through data triangulation among the surveys, interviews, and onsite observations. The initial in vivo codes were clustered into broader themes. These themes were subsequently mapped against the four-axis landscape assessment rubric. This process culminates in a transformation matrix that directly links raw user feedback to specific, reproducible structural and botanical design principles.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"3. Results","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec9\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.1. Sociodemographic characteristics of the participants\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eDuring the quantitative phase, 250 valid responses were collected from the academic community at the selected severe cold-climate university campus. Environmental perception and spatial needs are often significantly influenced by user profiles and socio-cultural backgrounds (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR40\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e40\u003c/span\u003e). Therefore, analysing the demographic distribution of participants is essential to contextualize the subsequent design preferences. The detailed sociodemographic characteristics of the respondents are presented in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFemales comprised the majority of the sample (74.4%, n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;186), whereas males accounted for 25.6% (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;64). With respect to age, 86.0% (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;215) of the respondents fell within the 18\u0026ndash;24 age bracket. This distribution strongly aligns with a typical undergraduate student profile. The 25\u0026ndash;34 age group constituted 8.4% (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;21) of the sample, whereas participants aged 35 and older accounted for 5.6% (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;14).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e Academically, the participant pool represented a comprehensive cross-section of daily university users. Undergraduate students formed the largest group (90.8%, n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;227). This proportion ensures adequate representation of the primary beneficiaries of campus open spaces. The sample additionally included graduate and doctoral students (2.8%, n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;7), academic staff (6.0%, n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;15), and administrative personnel (0.4%, n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;1). Furthermore, the departmental breakdown accurately reflected the demographic structure of the host faculty. The majority of the participants were affiliated with the Department of Landscape Architecture (57.6%, n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;144). Other participants were enrolled in interior architecture (18.4%, n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;46), architecture (15.6%, n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;39), and city and regional planning (8.4%, n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;21). This diverse, discipline-specific participant base ensures that the evaluations of spatial design, thematic identity, and climatic adaptation are grounded in a solid, expert-level understanding of the built environment (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR23\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e23\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab2\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 2\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSociodemographic profile of the survey participants (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;250).\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eVariables\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCategories\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFrequency (n)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePercentage (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eGender\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFemale\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e186\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e74.4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMale\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e64\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e25.6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAge Group\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e18\u0026ndash;24\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e215\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e86.0\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e25\u0026ndash;34\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e35 and above\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e14\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAcademic Status\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eUndergraduate Student\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e227\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e90.8\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eGraduate/Doctoral Student\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.8\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAcademic Staff\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e15\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.0\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAdministrative Staff\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDepartment\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLandscape Architecture\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e144\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e57.6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eInterior Architecture\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e46\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e18.4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eArchitecture\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e39\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e15.6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCity and Regional Planning\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec10\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.2. Design Approaches, activity preferences, and equipment demands\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo develop user-centered micro green infrastructures, participants were asked to evaluate their preferred design approaches for campus pocket parks. As detailed in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e, the \"Modern and Minimalist\" approach emerged as the most preferred design philosophy, selected by 64.8% (n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;162) of the respondents, which constituted 44.14% of the total selection share. This was closely followed by the \"Natural and Organic\" approach (46.4%, n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;116). Conversely, \"Traditional and Historical\" designs received the lowest preference rate at 8.4%. This strong inclination towards natural and contemporary aesthetics is consistent with recent studies highlighting that university students predominantly favor ecologically integrated and visually uncluttered restorative environments (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR41\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e41\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo determine whether these design preferences varied across different demographic profiles, a Pearson chi-square (χ2) test was conducted. The statistical analysis indicated that variables such as gender and academic unit did not significantly influence the choice of design approach (p\u0026thinsp;\u0026gt;\u0026thinsp;0.05). However, a statistically significant association was observed between the participants' academic status and their preference for both the \"Modern and Minimalist\" (p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.04) and \"Natural and Organic\" (p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.04) approaches. This partial variance is likely attributable to the disproportionately high representation of undergraduate students within the stratified sample. The contemporary aesthetic expectations of this specific demographic appear to significantly shape the overall design demands, confirming that the educational status and age of users are decisive factors in spatial perception and green space utilization (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab3\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 3\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePreferred design approaches for pocket parks and their relationships with demographic variables.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"7\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePreferred Design Approach\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFrequency (n)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePercentage (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eShare of Total (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eGender (χ2, p)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAcademic Unit (χ2, p)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eStatus (χ2, p)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eModern and Minimalist\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e162\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e64.8\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e44.14\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.58, .44\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.44, .48\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.07, .04*\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eNatural and Organic\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e116\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e46.4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e31.61\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.61, .43\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.27, .73\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.38, .04*\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTraditional and Historical\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e21\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.72\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.88, .17\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.80, .42\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.78, .67\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eColorful and Artistic\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e68\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e27.2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e18.53\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.62, .43\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.45, .33\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.66, .72\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTotal\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e367\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e100.00\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e* p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFollowing the establishment of the overarching design philosophy, the study investigated functional expectations regarding the primary activities that participants preferred to engage in within these spaces (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e). The highest priorities were \"Socialization Needs\" (74.4%, n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;186) and \"Resting/Relaxation\" (73.2%, n\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;183). These preferences strongly reinforce the role of pocket parks as restorative \"third places\" within harsh academic environments, functioning as vital socio-spatial anchors where spontaneous interaction and mental recovery occur (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e24\u003c/span\u003e). Furthermore, 48.4% of the participants expressed a desire to use these open spaces for educational purposes, such as studying and reading. This substantial demand for outdoor learning highlights the necessity of integrating informal learning settings into traditional campus landscapes to support diverse educational pedagogies (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR42\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e42\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR43\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e43\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eChi-square analysis revealed that most activity preferences were homogeneous across demographic groups, indicating a universal consensus on the core functions of micro green infrastructures. However, a statistically significant relationship was identified between the \"Academic Unit\" variable and the preference for \"Artistic/Cultural Events\" (p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.04). This statistical divergence suggests that students from specific design disciplines\u0026mdash;such as architecture and landscape architecture\u0026mdash;may have varying expectations regarding the programmatic flexibility and event-hosting capabilities of campus open spaces, viewing these areas not just as restorative retreats but as active, performative landscapes (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR44\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e44\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab4\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 4\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePreferred activities for pocket park design and their relationship with demographic variables.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"7\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePreferred Activity\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFrequency (n)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePercentage (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eShare of Total (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eGender (χ2, p)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eAcademic Unit (χ2, p)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eStatus (χ2, p)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSocialization Needs\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e186\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e74.4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e20.42\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.35, .13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.82, .84\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.24, .07\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eResting/Relaxation\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e183\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e73.2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e20.09\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.02, .96\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.18, .16\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.72, .70\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eEating/Drinking\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e124\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e49.6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13.61\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.89, .35\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.68, .13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.48, .11\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eStudying/Reading/Educational Activities\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e121\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e48.4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13.28\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.33, .57\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.51, .92\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.39, .18\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSpending Time with Nature\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e111\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e44.4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e12.18\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.21, .64\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.73, .13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.47, .79\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eWorkshop Activities\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e86\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e34.4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.44\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.34, .13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.41, .70\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.92, .38\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eArtistic/Cultural Events\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e63\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e25.2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e6.92\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.99, .17\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.52, .04*\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.44, .49\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSports/Physical Activity\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e37\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e14.8\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.06\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.04, .85\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e5.97, .11\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.35, .51\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTotal\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e911\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e100.00\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e* p\u0026thinsp;\u0026lt;\u0026thinsp;0.05\u003c/em\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo successfully accommodate these diverse activities, the participants identified specific structural elements and equipment deemed necessary for the proposed pocket parks (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab5\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e). The responses generated a total of 1,004 selection hits, indicating a robust demand for well-equipped and highly functional micro-infrastructures. The most critical requirement was \"Seating Units,\" which was demanded by an overwhelming 86.4% of the participants (representing 21.51% of the total votes). \"Green Spaces and Planting\" followed closely, with a 73.2% preference rate. This confirms that the availability of comfortable, ergonomic seating integrated with rich botanical elements is the primary catalyst for prolonged stationary activities and social interactions in urban parks (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e17\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eConsidering the severe climatic conditions of the study area, 55.2% of the users specifically demanded \"Shaded Resting Areas\" to regulate their thermal comfort. In high-altitude continental climates, where intense summer solar radiation rapidly replaces freezing winter temperatures, the provision of dynamic shading elements is essential to prevent the spatial abandonment of parks during the hotter academic months (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR45\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e45\u003c/span\u003e). Additionally, 47.6% of the respondents requested structural arrangements for open-air studies and workshops. This reflects a growing pedagogical shift towards outdoor \"learning landscapes,\" where students can work collaboratively in nature-based settings outside the traditional classroom walls (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR46\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e46\u003c/span\u003e). Furthermore, water features and lighting elements were deemed necessary by 37.6% and 38.8% of the participants, respectively. While water features significantly enhance the sensory and restorative quality of the environment by masking urban noise, adequate lighting extends the usability and perceived safety of these spaces during the darker, shorter days of the winter season (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR47\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e47\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab5\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 5\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDesired equipment and spatial elements in campus pocket parks.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"4\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDesired Equipment and Elements\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFrequency (n)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ePercentage (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eShare of Total (%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eSeating Units (Benches, cushioned seating, etc.)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e216\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e86.4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e21.51\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eGreen Spaces and Planting\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e183\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e73.2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e18.23\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eShaded Resting Areas\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e138\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e55.2\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e13.75\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eOpen-air Studying/Workshop Spaces\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e119\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e47.6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e11.85\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eLighting Elements\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e97\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e38.8\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.66\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eWater Features (Pools, ornamental waterfalls, etc.)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e94\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e37.6\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e9.36\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eArtistic Design Elements (Sculptures, wall art, etc.)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e86\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e34.4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e8.57\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eOpen-air Event Spaces\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e71\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e28.4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e7.07\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTotal\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e1004\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e-\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e100.00\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"4. Discussion","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec12\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e4.1. Contextualizing Micro-Green Infrastructures within Global and National Climate Strategies\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe empirical findings of this study demonstrate that micro green infrastructure, specifically campus pocket parks, is not merely an aesthetic addition to the built environment. Instead, these parks function as highly effective, climate-responsive socioecological units. This paradigm aligns strongly with the macrolevel sustainability targets established by international policy frameworks. The transition toward climate-neutral urban environments is heavily emphasized by the European Union\u0026rsquo;s Green Deal. This initiative advocates for the systematic integration of nature-based solutions (NBSs) into urban planning. Such integration is essential for enhancing biodiversity, mitigating the urban heat island (UHI) effect, and improving public health (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR48\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e48\u003c/span\u003e). The methodology presented in this study translates end-user expectations into a reproducible landscape assessment rubric (Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e). This approach directly supports the EU Green Deal mandate for inclusive and resilient green transformations.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFurthermore, the design and implementation of pocket parks respond directly to several of the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By prioritizing xeriscaping and sustainable water management, these microspaces actively contribute to SDG 13 (climate action). Simultaneously, they foster social cohesion and provide restorative environments for academic communities. These functions fulfil the core objectives of SDG 3 (good health and well-being) and SDG 11 (sustainable cities and communities) (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR49\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e49\u003c/span\u003e). The European Commission\u0026rsquo;s Horizon 2020 research innovation programs, particularly flagship projects such as Nature4Cities and URBAN GreenUP, provide substantial evidence for these interventions. They demonstrated that small-scale, decentralized nature-based interventions are highly effective in renaturing urban plans and creating smart, resilient ecological corridors (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR50\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e50\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR51\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e51\u003c/span\u003e). The Nature4Cities framework emphasizes that the technical performance of an NBS must be coupled with participatory governance. This principle validates the methodological reliance of the present study on survey-based participatory data to dictate botanical and structural typologies.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn the national context, the findings of this study strongly resonate with the spatial and ecological targets outlined in the Republic of Turkey\u0026rsquo;s 12th Development Plan (2024\u0026ndash;2028) and the National Climate Change Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan. The 12th Development Plan explicitly highlights the necessity of \"green transformation\" and the creation of \"sustainable and disaster-resilient cities\". These goals are achieved through the expansion of urban green infrastructure and water-sensitive landscaping (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR52\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e52\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR53\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e53\u003c/span\u003e). By integrating xeriscaping principles into cold-climate campus design, the proposed model offers a scalable blueprint for Turkish higher education institutions. This framework enables institutions to align their spatial planning with national carbon-reduction and climate-adaptation targets.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec13\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e4.2. Socio-Spatial Dynamics and the \"Third Place\" Concept in Campus Environments\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe quantitative results reveal a significant preference for the \"Modern and Minimalist\" design approach (64.8%), particularly among undergraduate students (p\u0026thinsp;=\u0026thinsp;0.04). This aesthetic inclination reflects a broader generational shift toward legible, uncluttered, and highly functional public spaces. Furthermore, the strong demand for \"resting/relaxation\" (73.2%) and \"socialization\" (74.4%) solidifies the conceptualization of campus pocket parks as essential \"third places\". Sociological studies, including the qualitative research conducted by D\u0026rsquo;Andrea Brooks et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e24\u003c/span\u003e), define these spaces as crucial environments outside residential and formal classroom settings. Within these areas, spontaneous interactions and community building occur, which significantly mitigate academic stress.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThese findings contrast with traditional campus planning models, which often prioritize monumental, large-scale green lawns over intimate, human-scale spaces. Nordh and \u0026Oslash;stby (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e) reported that the restorative potential of an urban space depends heavily on natural components, such as greenery and water, combined with an adequate sense of enclosure. Similarly, Lau and Yang (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR54\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e54\u003c/span\u003e) emphasized that inserting small-scale \"healing gardens\" into compact, high-density campuses provides manageable microclimates that foster psychological restoration. The academic community's specific demand for seating units (86.4%) and dedicated open-air study spaces (47.6%) explicitly calls for the spatial materialization of these restorative theories. Consequently, the contemporary campus is no longer viewed merely as an educational container. Instead, it functions as a \"learning landscape\" where social interaction and intellectual discovery are spatially intertwined.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec14\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e4.3. Microclimate Modulation, and the Duality of Shading in Winter Cities\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe successful management of microclimatic conditions is a critical aspect of designing public spaces in severe cold-climate regions. The temporal usage preferences identified in this study demonstrate a direct behavioral response to the harsh environmental constraints of a high-altitude winter city. Specifically, 64.4% of the respondents favoured afternoon usage, whereas 16.4% preferred morning usage. Morning frost, slippery surfaces, and sub-zero temperatures physically restrict outdoor mobility. These behavioral patterns correspond with the environmental stressor models discussed by McDonald-Yale and Birchall (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e), who argue that built environments in winter cities must be specifically designed to minimize wind chill and maximize solar capture to ensure student well-being.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eFurthermore, user concerns regarding both \"insufficient shading\" (40.4%) and \"excessive shading\" (34.8%) illustrate the complex climatic duality of continental severe cold regions. These regions typically experience prolonged, freezing winters alongside intense, arid summers. Recent environmental simulation studies utilizing ENVI-met support this duality. Qin and Zhou (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e) demonstrated that optimizing the ratio of deciduous to evergreen trees, such as by employing a 60/40 grid configuration, is essential for balancing seasonal thermal comfort. Deciduous trees provide critical shading to lower the physiological equivalent temperature (PET) during summer. Conversely, they shed leaves in winter to allow solar radiation to penetrate. Simultaneously, evergreen species act as effective windbreaks against harsh winter corridors. Similarly, Tao et al. (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e) highlighted that landscape elements, including plant configuration and surface albedo, exert a dominant influence on thermal perception in severely cold regions. Therefore, the application of the proposed landscape assessment rubric (Axis 2: Climatic \u0026amp; Geographic Suitability) dictates the use of flexible, seasonal botanical designs. These designs must adapt to extreme thermal swings rather than relying on static, temperate-zone templates.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec15\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e4.4. The Maintenance Paradox and Operational Lessons from Global Pocket Parks\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe survey results revealed a significant concern regarding a \"Lack of Cleaning and Maintenance\" (80.4%), which emerged as the primary anticipated problem among participants. This apprehension highlights a critical \"maintenance paradox\" in urban landscape architecture: highly complex, resource-intensive designs frequently fail shortly after implementation because the prohibitive costs of post-occupancy upkeep remain high. In severely cold climates, maintenance extends beyond aesthetic pruning; it strictly requires snow clearance, ice mitigation, and the continuous management of dormant vegetation.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo address this challenge, successful and active pocket parks must be analysed globally. In the United States, William S. Paley Park (1967) and Greenacre Park (1971) in New York City serve as foundational archetypes of successful micro green infrastructures. Despite their highly dense urban context, these parks maintain high vitality through flexible, movable seating, which allows users to actively seek sun or shade. Additionally, dynamic water features, such as water walls, generate white noise to mask urban traffic (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR55\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e55\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR56\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e56\u003c/span\u003e). These acoustic interventions directly address the \"Noise Problems\" anticipated by 48.0% of the surveyed participants. Furthermore, the operational success of these case studies relies on meticulous, privately managed maintenance models and the selection of highly durable hardscapes.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn winter-specific contexts, the Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park (New York City) provides a strong example of seasonal adaptability. The Park transitions from a summer lawn to an active winter destination by incorporating ice-skating and modular pop-up structures. Consequently, this transformation normalizes outdoor public life at freezing temperatures. The integration of such adaptive principles is reflected in the \"Modern Trends Integration\" parameter of the proposed landscape assessment rubric. This integration allows campus pocket parks to utilize pop-up elements, temporary tactical urbanism, and low-maintenance xeriscaping. The incorporation of drought-tolerant and frost-resistant species minimizes irrigation needs during summer and significantly reduces the amount of labor required for winterization. Ultimately, these strategies transform the maintenance burden into an ecologically sustainable operational model.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec16\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e4.5. Methodological Implications and Limitations\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe participatory framework utilized in this study shifts the paradigm of campus landscape design from a top-down, expert-driven imposition to a bottom-up, crowdsensed methodology (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e16\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR27\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e27\u003c/span\u003e). By utilizing the proposed Thematic and Modern Landscape Assessment Rubric, raw user data are systematically converted into tangible architectural and botanical parameters. This study confirms that the academic community possesses a profound, tacit understanding of its microclimatic and socio-spatial needs. When properly extracted, this understanding provides a highly reliable foundation for sustainable design.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eDespite these robust findings, several limitations must be acknowledged. First, the quantitative sample was heavily skewed toward female participants (74.4%) and students from design-related disciplines (e.g., landscape architecture, 57.6%). While this demographic provided highly informed and aesthetically conscious feedback, it may limit the generalizability of the findings to the broader, non-design-oriented student population. Second, the research relied predominantly on subjective thermal perception and anticipated behavioral patterns. Future research should integrate objective, on-site physical measurements to cross-validate these subjective preferences with empirical climatic data. Such measurements could include deploying ENVI-met microclimate simulations (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e), portable weather stations, and long-term behavioral mapping. Furthermore, integrating the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart-campus technologies, as explored in the Nature4Cities paradigm (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR50\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e50\u003c/span\u003e), could enhance the real-time monitoring and adaptive management of this vital micro green infrastructure.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"5. Conclusion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe integration of micro green infrastructures into university campuses represents a critical shift toward socially sustainable and environmentally resilient learning landscapes. However, imposing temperate-zone design templates onto high-altitude, severe cold-climate regions often results in spatial abandonment and operational failure. This study addresses this critical gap by employing a participatory, mixed-methods approach to determine the design principles for climate-adaptive, nature-based pocket parks tailored specifically to winter cities.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe empirical findings demonstrate that the academic community envisions campus pocket parks not merely as aesthetic transit corridors, but as indispensable \"third places\" (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR24\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e24\u003c/span\u003e). The strong demand for seating units (86.4%), socialization zones (74.4%), and restorative environments highlights a profound need for human-scaled, modern, and minimalist open spaces that mitigate academic stress. Furthermore, the study revealed that spatial preferences in severe cold climates are heavily dictated by microclimatic stressors. The temporal concentration of outdoor usage during midday and afternoon hours corresponds with the participants' dual concerns regarding both \"insufficient\" and \"excessive\" shading. This finding indicates that seasonal thermal adaptability is a vital functional requirement. Additionally, 80.4% of the participants identified a \"lack of cleaning and maintenance\" as their primary concern, highlighting a critical post-occupancy management burden in landscape architecture. In winter cities, aesthetic design becomes ineffective without robust operational management, particularly with respect to snow clearance and ice mitigation.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eTo resolve these interconnected socio-spatial and climatic challenges, the primary practical contribution of this research is the development of the Thematic and Modern Landscape Assessment Rubric. By synthesizing quantitative user data and qualitative focus group narratives, this four-axis matrix provides a reproducible, evidence-based blueprint. It dictates the utilization of xeriscaping, drought-tolerant native species, and modular hardscapes to ensure year-round usability and minimize maintenance burdens.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eAt the macro-level, this study confirms that localized campus interventions, when guided by participatory governance, directly support the broader objectives of the European Union\u0026rsquo;s Green Deal, the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and national green transformation strategies (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR48\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e48\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR49\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e49\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR52\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e52\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR53\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e53\u003c/span\u003e). For future research, cross-validating these subjective user perceptions with objective meteorological data is recommended. This can be achieved through ENVI-met microclimate simulations (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e14\u003c/span\u003e, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e15\u003c/span\u003e) and the integration of Internet of Things (IoT)-based smart campus monitoring systems (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR50\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e50\u003c/span\u003e). Ultimately, university administrations and urban planners must move beyond season-blind planning practices and temperate-centric design approaches. By adopting the climate-responsive and participatory framework proposed in this study, higher education institutions in severe cold regions can successfully transform their harsh outdoor environments into vibrant, sustainable, and resilient learning landscapes.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAcknowledgements \u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors would like to express their sincere gratitude to the students, academic staff, and administrative personnel of Atat\u0026uuml;rk University for their valuable time and voluntary participation in the surveys and focus group discussions. Their insightful feedback was the cornerstone of this participatory research.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAuthor contributions \u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eH.V., F.K., and M.\u0026Ouml;. conceptualized the study and designed the methodology. G.A.A., M.\u0026Ouml;., A.K., and S.C. conducted the field investigations, including the distribution of surveys and facilitation of focus groups. H.V. and S.C. performed the formal data analysis and synthesized the findings into the assessment rubric. S.C. and G.A.A. developed the conceptual spatial sketches and visualizations. F.K., A.K., and H.V. wrote the main manuscript text. F.K. supervised the research and critically reviewed the manuscript. All authors reviewed and approved the final manuscript.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFunding Declaration\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis research received no external funding.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCompeting interests\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe authors declare no competing interests in producing this article, neither in personal nor financial matters.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eData availability\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.\u003c/p\u003e\n\n\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eInstitutional Review Board Statement\u003c/strong\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe study protocol, including the survey instruments and data management plans, was reviewed and approved by the Science and Engineering Sciences Ethics Committee of Atat\u0026uuml;rk University (Approval date: 30.01.2026, Decision No: 5). All research procedures were performed in accordance with relevant guidelines and regulations (e.g., the Declaration of Helsinki). Informed consent was obtained from all participants prior to the commencement of the online survey and focus group interviews. The data were collected anonymously, ensuring that no personally identifiable information was recorded, thereby protecting participant privacy and fulfilling institutional ethical mandates.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eDong, J. et al. Pocket parks: A systematic literature review. \u003cem\u003eEnviron. Res. Lett.\u003c/em\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e18\u003c/strong\u003e, 083003 (2023).\u003c/li\u003e\n \u003cli\u003eRosso, F., Cappa, F., Spitzmiller, R. \u0026amp; Ferrero, M. Pocket parks towards more sustainable cities: Architectural, environmental, managerial and legal considerations. \u003cem\u003eEnviron. 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(2015).\u003c/li\u003e\n\u003c/ol\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":false,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":false,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"scientific-reports","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"scirep","sideBox":"Learn more about [Scientific Reports](http://www.nature.com/srep/)","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"","title":"Scientific Reports","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Scientific Reports","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Micro green infrastructure, pocket parks, winter cities, participatory design, nature-based solutions, socio-spatial perception, landscape assessment rubric","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-9396924/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-9396924/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003eThe integration of micro green infrastructures, specifically pocket parks, is increasingly recognized as a vital nature-based solution (NBS) to enhance urban climate resilience. However, traditional landscape planning in severe cold-climate regions often defaults to temperate-centric paradigms, resulting in the spatial abandonment of outdoor areas during prolonged winters. This study proposes that climate-resilient urban infrastructure is fundamentally a socio-spatial phenomenon, requiring subjective human perception data to complement objective microclimatic metrics. Focusing on Erzurum, Turkey—a high-altitude winter city—we developed a mixed-methods participatory framework to establish design principles for climate-adaptive pocket parks. Quantitative surveys (n = 250) and qualitative focus groups revealed that the academic community demands restorative \"third places\" with minimalist designs (64.8%). Crucially, an overwhelming anxiety regarding maintenance (80.4%) exposed a post-occupancy management burden, while concurrent concerns over shading highlighted the absolute necessity of seasonal thermal flexibility. Synthesizing these survey-based participatory demands, we introduce a reproducible \"Thematic and Modern Landscape Assessment Rubric\" that directly links user constraints to xeriscaping and low-maintenance botanical typologies. Ultimately, this study demonstrates that integrating rigorous socio-ecological methodologies into early design phases is essential for scaling campus-level microclimate interventions into comprehensive urban resilience strategies.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Co-Creating Climate-Resilient Campuses: A Participatory Framework for Nature-Based Micro Green Infrastructures in Severe Cold Climates","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2026-05-07 14:52:44","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-9396924/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-05-05T12:24:26+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"136240461159202808900449911280091724437","date":"2026-05-04T07:09:47+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"337235752724225212951928974661500184036","date":"2026-05-03T19:05:56+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewersInvited","content":"","date":"2026-04-28T19:03:54+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvited","content":"","date":"2026-04-28T15:32:36+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorAssigned","content":"","date":"2026-04-16T04:30:44+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"checksComplete","content":"","date":"2026-04-16T04:30:42+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"submitted","content":"Scientific Reports","date":"2026-04-12T21:36:43+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"scientific-reports","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"scirep","sideBox":"Learn more about [Scientific Reports](http://www.nature.com/srep/)","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"","title":"Scientific Reports","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Scientific Reports","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"456074fe-5c87-4b2d-9a96-9cfadad579bb","owner":[],"postedDate":"May 7th, 2026","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-05-05T12:24:26+00:00","index":40,"fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"136240461159202808900449911280091724437","date":"2026-05-04T07:09:47+00:00","index":39,"fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"337235752724225212951928974661500184036","date":"2026-05-03T19:05:56+00:00","index":38,"fulltext":""}],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"under-review","subjectAreas":[{"id":67558568,"name":"Biological sciences/Ecology"},{"id":67558569,"name":"Earth and environmental sciences/Ecology"},{"id":67558570,"name":"Earth and environmental sciences/Environmental sciences"},{"id":67558571,"name":"Earth and environmental sciences/Environmental social sciences"},{"id":67558572,"name":"Social science/Environmental studies"},{"id":67558573,"name":"Scientific community and society/Geography"},{"id":67558574,"name":"Social science/Geography"}],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-05-07T14:52:44+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2026-05-07 14:52:44","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-9396924","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-9396924","identity":"rs-9396924","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"XKTyCvWXoU3ODBz1xrDgd","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}